Exclusive - Froch targets Kessler re-match

Carl Froch is targeting a mega-fight against Mikkel Kessler next summer.

The IBF super-middleweight champion will defend his title against Yusaf Mack in November and, although he insists he won’t be taking the American lightly, he is already looking beyond that bout and a re-match against one of the only two men to beat him.

The Cobra told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast: “I want a re-match with Kessler and to avenge that loss. We could maybe put that on at the City Ground [Nottingham Forest], hopefully next May or June, at the end of the football season.”

For now, however, the 35-year-old is fully focused on Mack and keeping hold of his title.

He added: “He’s used to fighting at light-heavyweight, so he’s got to lose a couple of pounds, but he’s big and strong so I’ve got to be careful.

“He’s got quite a high knockout percentage rate. All of these guys can punch.

“People say this will be a steady defence but he’s number five in the world rankings and he’s there for a reason.”